Today we announced some exciting developments for the upcoming API Strategy & Practice Conference in Chicago. And we mean development – we’ve added a new Developer Track, Expo Zone and Speed Hack Challenge, co-organized with API Evangelist and our friends at WIP.

Because we’ve seen the number of app developer attendees at APIStrat grow ever time, we decided to create a program that still takes the pulse of where APIs are headed, but also provides a way to for developers to meet key API providers and get more involved.

The new Developer Track includes talks from API providers including Twilio, Traitify, Context.io, Twitter, and Respoke. There is an Expo Zone where developers can meet and talk with all of those API providers. And finally, to test out their new API knowledge, have a bit of fun and explore some of the leading APIs and what makes them tick – we’ve also included a Speed Hack Challenge with $2,000 in prizes.

Special $99 Developer tickets are now available through August. Registration at this level includes entry to the Expo Zone, all the developer track sessions, some of the keynote sessions, and (optionally) the Speed Hack Challenge. Space for the Speed Hack Challenge is limited – so prospective contestants, sign up as fast as you’re going to code! You’ll be asked if you’d like to participate when you register for a ticket.

If you’re interested in attending the full conference event, remember that early bird ticket sales end August 9. The newly announced program is available here.

Companies interested in participating in the Speed Hack Challenge with their APIs can reach out to APIStrat representatives directly at apiconference@3scale.net.